The station posted an apology online and co-anchorwoman Van Tieu also apologised during the 10pm newscast.

Video of Clemente’s two-word outburst was immediately posted online via social media sites, and the hashtag #keepaj started trending on Twitter in support of him.

Clemente tweeted after the broadcast: “That couldn’t have gone any worse!” He later added: “Unfortunately KFYRTV has decided to let me go. Thank you to them and everyone in ND for the opportunity and everyone for the support.”

Clemente opened up on air by saying “Fucking shit” into his live microphone, leaving his co-anchor dumbfounded.

Anchor Van Tieu appeared shocked and stumbled over her words as she tried to compose herself in front of viewers, to whom she was about to introduce Clemente. Monica Hannan, news director for the station, took to the KFYR Facebook page to post an apology for the slip-up.

Clemente took to social media later to poke fun and declare himself now “a free agent” to potential employers.

He made light of his “rookie mistake”, adding “can’t help but laugh at myself and stay positive”.